Patrolman John S. Collins

John S. Collins

Patrolman John S. Collins was shot and killed when he attempted to apprehend a car thief while off duty.

Officer Collins and his wife were Christmas shopping at a department store at 79th and Kenwood when their 10 year old son got lost in the crowded store. Officer Collins and his wife thought the boy might return to the car and went to the parking lot to look for him. As they approached the car, they observed a man attempting to break into their vehicle. Officer Collins asked the man what he was doing, the man replied that he apparently had mistaken his car for his own.

Collins identified himself as a police officer. The man drew a revolver and grabbed Mrs. Collins as a shield. Officer Collins drew his revolver. The gunman fired one shot at Collins but missed. He then ran from the lot with Collins in pursuit. When Officer Collins caught up with him in a gangway, another struggle ensued. A shot was fired, mortally wounding Officer Collins. He was transported to Jackson Park Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds.

The 25-year-old killer was apprehended and sentenced to death. On June 15, 1973, he was resentenced to 100 to 200 years after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled all death sentences invalid.

Officer Collins is survived by his wife and son.